API 610 is an internationally recognized standard for centrifugal pumps used in the petroleum, petrochemical and natural gas industries. Based on pump construction, shaft support and installation arrangement, API 610 pumps are classified into three main groups: OH (Overhung), BB (Between Bearings), and VS (Vertically Suspended). These pump types cover a wide range of flow, pressure, temperature and process requirements.
1. API610 OH Pumps: Overhung Pumps
OH pumps feature an impeller mounted beyond the bearing support. They offer a compact structure and are widely used for general process services, especially where space and maintenance accessibility are important.
API610 OH1 Pump – A foot-mounted, single-stage overhung pump for general industrial and process applications.
API610 OH2 Pump – A centerline-mounted, single-stage overhung pump designed for higher-temperature, higher-pressure and heavy-duty services.
Typical applications include refinery process systems, oil transfer, solvent circulation, cooling water, industrial circulation and other medium-flow applications.
2. API610 BB Pumps: Between-Bearings Pumps
BB pumps have the rotor supported by bearings at both ends. This configuration provides excellent rotor stiffness, stable operation and strong resistance to vibration. BB pumps are particularly suitable for high-flow, high-pressure and continuous-duty applications.
API610 BB1 Pump – An axially split, horizontally split single- or two-stage pump. Its split casing allows convenient inspection and maintenance and is suitable for large-flow, medium-pressure services.
API610 BB2 Pump – A radially split, single-stage pump available in single- or double-suction configurations, suitable for high-flow and medium-to-high-pressure applications.
API610 BB3 Pump – An axially split, multistage pump designed for high-pressure, continuous-duty services and multistage pressure boosting.
API610 BB4 Pump – A radially split, single-casing multistage pump for high-pressure process applications.
BB5 – A radially split, double-casing multistage pump designed for demanding high-pressure and high-temperature services.
BB pumps are commonly used in refinery process units, pipeline boosting, boiler feed systems, mining dewatering, chemical processing and other critical industrial services.
3. API610 VS Pumps: Vertically Suspended Pumps
VS pumps are vertically installed, with the pump bowl or impeller assembly suspended in the liquid. This design is suitable for tanks, sumps, deep pits and other applications where conventional horizontal pumps are difficult to install or prime.
Typical applications include tank drainage, wastewater lifting, seawater intake, cooling-water systems, chemical process drainage and high-temperature liquid transfer.
Choosing the Right API610 Pump
The selection of an API610 pump depends on flow rate, discharge pressure, liquid properties, temperature, installation arrangement, operating conditions and maintenance requirements. OH pumps are generally preferred for compact, single-stage process services, while BB pumps are ideal for high-flow, high-pressure and continuous-duty applications. VS pumps are selected for vertical, submerged or tank-mounted services.
When choosing an API610 pump manufacturer, buyers should consider engineering capability, manufacturing quality, testing facilities, material selection and experience with demanding industrial applications. A qualified manufacturer can provide customized pump solutions that meet API 610 requirements while ensuring reliable and long-term operation.